When it comes to digital media, clicks are crucial. This makes the task of captivating headlines that much more important than with print. According to QuickSprout, a one-word change in the email subject line can increase click-throughs by up to 46%. Headlines can either draw readers in or cause them to keep scrolling, no matter how incredible your copy may be. Today, we’re breaking down some quick fixes to ensure that your headlines and subject lines are getting the attention they deserve.

1. Use digits instead of words

If you’re publishing an educational article such as this one, “5 Ways to Captivate Audiences” is always going to perform better than “Five Ways to Captivate Audiences”. It’s been tested and confirmed time and time again that digits outperform words. Consumers are also more likely to be drawn to an offer of “50% off” as opposed to “Half Off”. Digits and symbols are much easier to digest and catch the eye of those who are merely skimming.

2. Create a sense of urgency

Adding words and phrases such as “right now” or “today” to your headline can increase urgency or light a fire under the reader. For example, “10 Ways to Boost Engagement Today” will outperform “10 Ways to Boost Engagement” simply due to the time-sensitive nature of the headline. The same feeling can be achieved by instilling a sense of ‘FOMO’ (Fear Of Missing Out) like “10 Engagement Boosting Tricks You Aren’t Using.” 

3. Ask a question

One of the best ways to engage readers is by posing a question, as they tend to spark curiosity. A close-ended question that allows the audience to answer either “yes” or “no” in their heads, tend to convert extremely well. Instead of “The Best Ways to Use Hashtags,” consider “Are You Using Hashtags Like You Should Be?”.

4. Implement keywords

Online, SEO reigns king. Although social sharing is an important and helpful tool, Google is still the primary traffic source to most websites. By implementing popular keywords for your subject matter, not only will your content get clicks, but you’ll kill two birds with one stone by driving traffic to your website.